'Not everybody that uses a spray paint can is a vandal'

EUGENE, Ore. - Graffiti Art Northwest along with the Door Christian Fellowship put on the first annual Graffiti Art Competition in Eugene.  Armed with cans and canvas, local artists battled it out under the Washington/Jefferson Bridge for a shot at a $200 prize.

"The biggest misconception is that everybody is a destroyer that uses a spray paint can, everybody vandalizes property," says Kenneth Taylor, a local artist that has been using aerosol for about 6 years, "Maybe they did at one time, but I think the point is aerosol can be used in a good way."

In addition to the competition, the park was filled with the sound of live music and activities for the kiddos.

Organizers and artists alike say they hope the event changes peoples view of Graffiti while also giving Graffiti artists a place to practice their craft.

They also add if all goes well this year, the competition will continue on as an annual event.